The Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) has unveiled a new procedure for reinstating diaspora pensioners who were removed from the pension payroll due to verification issues.
This update affects those under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) who have been suspended for not verifying their status.
Diaspora pensioners are now required to renew their ‘Aliveness Certificate’ through the Nigerian High Commission in their respective countries. This step is crucial because they are unable to participate in the regular ‘I Am Alive’ verification process used for pensioners residing in Nigeria.
Dr. Chioma Ejikeme, the Executive Secretary of PTAD, clarified that during a nationwide verification exercise, many pensioners who failed to confirm their status were removed from the payroll. However, diaspora and sick pensioners were exempted from this process. New policies have now been introduced to address the verification of pensioners living abroad.
To facilitate their reinstatement, diaspora pensioners who were on the inherited payroll from August 2015 must undergo physical verification and submit several documents. These include a letter of first appointment, a letter of last promotion, a letter of acceptance of retirement, and a bank statement showing the last pension received.
Also, a BVN slip with a photograph, a valid means of identification, an Aliveness Certification from the Nigerian High Commission or a notarised letter confirming their aliveness
Dr. Ejikeme stressed that diaspora pensioners need to update their ‘Aliveness Certificate’ every six months to ensure they continue receiving their pensions. Failure to provide the updated documentation will result in suspension from the payroll.
This new measure aims to streamline the verification process for diaspora pensioners and ensure that only eligible individuals receive their pension benefits.
